The NIE in Spain: complete guide 2026
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is the essential document for any administrative procedure in Spain. Here is everything you need to know to obtain it quickly.
Also available in Español · Nederlands · Français
What is the NIE?
The NIE (Número de Identificación de Extranjero) is the tax identification number assigned to every foreign national who carries out administrative procedures in Spain. It always starts with a letter (X, Y or Z), followed by 7 digits and a check letter. Without this number, you cannot buy property, open a bank account, work legally or sign a phone contract.
Who can apply for a NIE?
Any foreign national (EU or non-EU) with an economic, professional or social interest in Spain can apply for a NIE. For EU citizens (Belgium, France, Netherlands…), the NIE also serves as a residency number once registered at the Registro Central de Extranjeros.
Which form to use
The official form is EX-15 (for non-residents) or EX-18 (for EU residents applying for a residency certificate). You can download it free from the Ministerio del Interior website.
Required documents
- Fully completed and signed EX-15 form
- Original passport + full photocopy
- Proof of reason for application (sale agreement, work contract, purchase promise…)
- Tasa 790-012 paid at a bank (€9.84 in 2026)
Where and how to book an appointment
Appointments are booked online via the official cita previa de Extranjería portal (sede.administracionespublicas.gob.es). Select your province and choose “Policía Nacional - Extranjería - NIE y Certificados”. Slots are often released at midnight or early in the morning — be quick.
Timeline
The NIE is generally issued on the day of your appointment, after document verification. Allow 2 to 4 weeks to secure an appointment depending on your province.
NIE from Belgium
If you are still in Belgium before your move, you can apply for the NIE at the Spanish Consulate General in Brussels. This is useful if you need to sign a purchase agreement before arriving in Spain. Waiting times are often longer (4 to 8 weeks).
What to do after receiving your NIE?
- Open a Spanish bank account
- Register at the empadronamiento (municipal register)
- Register your vehicle
- Apply for an EU residency certificate (if staying more than 3 months)
- Register with the Seguridad Social
Keep the original document safe: it will be requested regularly.
